I wish to correct a response made by Don Kraftt in a recent front page Tribune story, “Not why we elected you,” when he pulled an offer to provide emergency “code blue” shelter to the unhoused in the Mountain Road Presbyterian Church due to “intense backlash, and fear” from his neighbors.
He is quoted as saying, “This issue has become one of contention and anger and even division in the precious community that we are so proud to be a part of, and we certainly do not want to be the cause of such angst.”
My correction contends that the church might be seen as a catalyst of community angst, but the actual cause is more closely associated with that community’s anti-Christian reaction to the offer. I make an assumption here that many of the objecting local residents identify as Christians, whether Presbyterian or other, but disciples of Christ nonetheless.
Considering the traditional ministry of Jesus, I wonder how these seeming CINOs (Christians In Name Only) would expect their professed savior to judge their actions in the light of that ministry? Considering that Jesus died a terrible death upholding both the human and divine rights of all men, it doesn’t seem to be asking too much of his disciples to honor his sacrifice by allowing some of his most unfortunate children basic temporary shelter from life-threatening low temperatures. No community member is being asked to die on a cross here. Just to practice their Christianity beyond the church parking lot.
Grant Hagen, North Salt Lake
